Nicole Kaeding, the Tax Foundation economist who researched and wrote the book, tells me there are several tax areas "ripe for reform."

In addition to the second-highest (to Iowa) CNI, we have the highest gasoline tax. We've got the 15th highest overall tax burden, consistently higher than the U.S. average since 1977. And we rank 32nd among states in business tax climate.

That's worse than "peer states" such as Texas, Florida, North Carolina, and Virginia that Kaeding says we most compete with for business.

I'd note each of those states ranks substantially higher in job growth alone.

Philly and Pittsburgh, for example, have high local wage taxes on top of state income taxes, pushing Philly's rate to 6.98 percent and Pittsburgh's to 6.07 percent.

Kaeding says we're a "true outlier." Most states don't have local income taxes.

Business Council boss Dave Patti says the tax project is aimed at laying a baseline for "holistic" reforms over time. He notes, for example, one statewide system to collect local taxes could cut compliance costs for employers and make things easier for all taxpayers.

The Wolf administration isn't happy with the book's view of the state economy.

But Albright says "there's no question" the CNI should come down, property taxes should be lowered, and the sales tax should be broadened.

Guess all that's needed now is a tax-reform package that Wolf and lawmakers can agree to. How hard (cough) can that be?

Oh, and for you wonks, the book's on the foundation website: taxfoundation.org.

Workforce Development

Pennsylvania has a workforce problem - a growing skills gap that is making it difficult for employers to find qualified job candidates to fill open positions. We're fighting to close this gap by working with businesses, educators, students and their families to help build the skilled workforce of tomorrow.

Responsible State Spending

Government should operate within its means: evaluating the effectiveness of current programs; weeding out waste, fraud and abuse in spending; and investing wisely in worthy state-run programs that directly benefit taxpayers.

Stop New Energy Taxes

Our natural gas industry holds the promise of economic growth and job creation. Additional taxes hinder this opportunity and drive companies to states with friendlier tax climates that share our resources. We're fighting against proposed new taxes on the industry that would pay for more state spending.